You can measure the true mark of a man from how people remember them when they’re gone.
A year ago today, Stevie Smith left us in tragic circumstances. When you met Stevie he was so full of life he seemed almost invincible, it was news we simply never could have expected and we’re still reeling to this day.
The World Cup pits simply don’t feel the same without his effervescent personality, his pure commitment on a racetrack and his larger than life presence. It’s unlikely we’ll ever find another rider quite like Stevie.
But really everything that needs to be said about his tragic passing has already been said and there’s no point re-treading old ground. What continues to amaze us is the way the the entire mountain biking community has taken on the spirit of Chainsaw and chosen to commemorate him in so many amazing ways. From raising money for charity to just getting loose in his honour, we’re sure Stevie would be looking down proudly on how we’ve remembered him. Here are some of the most awesome ways his legacy has been carried on.
#longlivechainsaw
The Fort William Ghost Run
Has there ever been a more beautiful moment in the history of mountain biking? What started as a comment on a website became the perfect tribute to one of downhill’s greatest. There wasn’t a dry eye in the finishing area during the ghost run and with good reason. Truly special.